Computer imaging continues to gain in popularity for both face and body plastic surgery procedures. While traditionally reserved as a patient communication tool inside a plastic surgeon’s office, it has become available to patients at home from numerous internet website providers. Such imaging tools have even become available on the iphone as downloaded applications for face and breast self-imaging.
One of the newer online do-it-yourself patient simulation services is facetouchup. This system allows interested patients to see the potential outcomes of cosmetic procedures. Patients can upload their own images and perform simulations of various facial procedures. Like many such systems, it is a facial manipulation site with best use for rhinoplasty and other facial profile changes. Its quality of imaging is pretty good. While some plastic surgeons may criticize the concept of allowing patients to make changes to their own face, which may be wildly unrealistic, I have no aversion to what used to be the exclusive territory of the plastic surgeon. Having patients simulate what they want is a great way for them to generate increased interest and enthusiasm and may be enough to have them make an in-office consultation.
One of the interesting offering this company provides is that plastic surgery practices can upload the software to their website and customize it for their unique offerings. This is evident on the homepage as there are separate areas for both surgeons and patients to enter. Its value is probably not that the plastic surgeon can actually use it for their own imaging but it is an attractive entry and retention point for patients who visit their website.
Where will computer imaging for the plastic surgery patient evolve next? More smart phone applications is a certainty, live doctor-patient simulations is undoubtably right around the corner.
Dr. Barry Eppley
Indianapolis, Indiana